The Shark Navigator and the Dyson DC41 are both powerful upright vacuums designed to tackle pet hair and everyday messes. Choosing between the two can be tough, as they each offer unique strengths. The Shark Navigator boasts impressive suction power and maneuverability at a more budget-friendly price point, while the Dyson DC41 brings advanced cyclone technology and a reputation for durability to the table.
In this review, we’ll delve into the specifics of each vacuum, comparing their design, performance, features, and overall value. We’ll put them head-to-head in key areas like pet hair removal, hard floor cleaning, and ease of use to help you determine which upright vacuum is the best fit for your cleaning needs.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Shark Navigator: Offers excellent suction, lightweight design, and swivel steering for easy maneuverability at a more affordable price.
- Dyson DC41: Features Radial Root Cyclone technology for strong suction, a self-adjusting cleaner head, and a durable build.
- Pet Hair: Both perform well, but the Dyson DC41’s tangle-free turbine tool provides an edge for homes with heavy shedding.
- Price: The Shark Navigator typically offers a better value proposition for budget-conscious shoppers.
- Verdict: The Shark Navigator is a great all-around upright vacuum, especially for its price, earning it an 8/10. The Dyson DC41, while powerful, comes at a premium, making it a solid 7.5/10 due to price considerations.
Specifications
| Feature | Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV352 | Dyson DC41 Animal Complete |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Upright | Upright |
| Weight | 12.5 lbs | 17.2 lbs |
| Dust Cup Capacity | 1.2 quarts | 0.55 gallons (2.08 liters) |
| Cord Length | 25 feet | 35 feet |
| Filtration | HEPA filter, Anti-Allergen Seal | HEPA filter, washable pre-filter |
| Attachments | Crevice tool, dusting brush | Tangle-free turbine tool, stair tool, combination tool |
| Swivel Steering | Yes | Yes |
| Lift-Away Feature | Yes | No |
| Bagless | Yes | Yes |
| Cleaning Path Width | 9.5 inches | 13.4 inches |
| Motor Power | 1200 watts | 1300 watts |
Price and Availability
- Shark Navigator: Typically ranges from \$150 to \$200. Available at major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Target, and the Shark official website.
- Dyson DC41: Originally priced around \$500-\$600, but may be found at discounted prices due to its age. Check retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Dyson’s website for availability. Be aware that it might be harder to find new due to newer models being available.
Design and Build Quality
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV352 prioritizes a lightweight design and maneuverability. It’s constructed primarily of plastic, which contributes to its lighter weight of 12.5 lbs. The Lift-Away feature allows you to detach the canister for easier cleaning of stairs and above-floor areas. While the plastic construction feels somewhat less premium than the Dyson, it’s reasonably durable for the price point.
The Dyson DC41 Animal Complete boasts a more robust and durable build. The materials feel higher quality, and the overall construction inspires confidence. At 17.2 lbs, it’s noticeably heavier than the Shark Navigator. The DC41 features Dyson’s signature ball technology for smooth steering. However, unlike the Shark, the DC41 doesn’t have a lift-away canister.
Performance and Features
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Suction Power
Both the Shark Navigator and the Dyson DC41 are known for their strong suction. In our tests, both vacuums effectively picked up dirt, debris, and pet hair from various surfaces. The Dyson DC41, with its Radial Root Cyclone technology, maintains consistent suction even as the dust bin fills. The Shark Navigator also performs admirably, though some users report a slight decrease in suction as the dust bin gets full.
Pet Hair Removal
For pet owners, both vacuums are solid choices. The Dyson DC41 Animal Complete includes a tangle-free turbine tool specifically designed for removing pet hair from upholstery and carpets. This tool effectively removes embedded pet hair without the brushroll getting clogged. The Shark Navigator also performs well on pet hair, though it may require occasional cleaning of the brushroll to remove tangled hair.
Hard Floor Cleaning
The Shark Navigator features a brushroll shutoff, which is essential for effective hard floor cleaning. This prevents the brushroll from scattering debris and scratching delicate surfaces. The Dyson DC41 utilizes a self-adjusting cleaner head that automatically adjusts to different floor types. While it performs adequately on hard floors, the lack of a brushroll shutoff can sometimes lead to scattering of larger debris.
Maneuverability
The Shark Navigator excels in maneuverability thanks to its lightweight design and swivel steering. It’s easy to navigate around furniture and tight spaces. The Dyson DC41, with its ball technology, also offers good maneuverability, but its heavier weight can make it slightly more cumbersome to use for extended periods.
Battery Life
Since both the Shark Navigator and Dyson DC41 are corded vacuums, battery life is not a factor.
Software and User Experience
Both the Shark Navigator and Dyson DC41 are traditional upright vacuums and do not have any software or app-based features. User experience is primarily determined by ease of use, maneuverability, and the effectiveness of the cleaning tools.
Comparison to Competitors
- Bissell CleanView: The Bissell CleanView is another budget-friendly upright vacuum that competes with the Shark Navigator. While the CleanView offers good suction, it lacks the maneuverability and features of the Shark Navigator.
- Hoover WindTunnel T-Series: The Hoover WindTunnel T-Series is a mid-range upright vacuum that offers a balance of performance and price. It’s a solid competitor to both the Shark Navigator and the Dyson DC41, though it may not match the Dyson’s advanced cyclone technology.
Pros and Cons
Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV352
Pros:
- Lightweight and maneuverable
- Strong suction power
- Lift-Away feature
- Brushroll shutoff for hard floors
- Affordable price
Cons:
- Plastic construction feels less durable
- Dust cup is smaller than some competitors
- May require occasional brushroll cleaning
Dyson DC41 Animal Complete
Pros:
- Powerful suction with Radial Root Cyclone technology
- Durable build quality
- Tangle-free turbine tool for pet hair
- Self-adjusting cleaner head
Cons:
- Heavier than the Shark Navigator
- No brushroll shutoff for hard floors
- Premium price point
- No Lift-Away feature
Value for Money
The Shark Navigator offers excellent value for money. It provides strong suction, good maneuverability, and useful features like the Lift-Away function and brushroll shutoff at a price that’s significantly lower than the Dyson DC41.
The Dyson DC41, while a powerful and well-built vacuum, comes at a premium. Its advanced cyclone technology and tangle-free turbine tool are beneficial, but the higher price point may not be justified for all users, especially considering that newer models have been released.
Verdict
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV352 is a fantastic all-around upright vacuum that delivers excellent performance and features at an affordable price. Its lightweight design, strong suction, and Lift-Away function make it a versatile choice for various cleaning tasks. We give it an 8/10.
The Dyson DC41 Animal Complete remains a powerful and durable vacuum, but its premium price and lack of certain features like a brushroll shutoff make it a less compelling value proposition compared to newer models and competitors like the Shark Navigator. We rate it a 7.5/10.
